Ep #52 Electrifying Australia with Saul Griffith: How Tradespeople and Policy Can Lead the Clean Energy Revolution

In this episode:
We sit down with Saul Griffith to explore his journey from metallurgy to MIT, Silicon Valley, and now leading work in policy, engineering, and sustainability. Saul shares insights on electrification, zero-emissions infrastructure, and how tradespeople are central to building a clean energy future. We also dive into innovative ideas for long-lasting homes, smarter energy markets, and practical ways Australians can trade and generate electricity.

Episode Covers:

• Electrification and the role of tradespeople in a zero-emissions future
• Reforming the electricity market to empower households
• Improving the National Construction Code and building “thousand-year homes”
• Sustainable construction materials: bricks, timber, and hybrid approaches
• Cost savings, public health, and community benefits of clean energy
• Challenges and opportunities in clean tech supply chains and domestic manufacturing
• Saul’s productivity rituals and a sneak peek at his upcoming book

Episode Highlights:

• Saul criticizes star ratings for homes and proposes energy efficiency measured in kilowatt hours per square meter per person
• Discussion on Australians trading solar power peer-to-peer
• Vision for long-lasting, durable, zero-emission homes
• Fun rapid-fire questions: favorite sports teams, snacks, and music preferences
• Insights into upcoming book and Substack updates

Perfect for:

• Sustainability enthusiasts and clean energy advocates
• Tradespeople and engineers interested in electrification
• Policy makers and innovators in energy and infrastructure
• Anyone curious about practical solutions for a zero-emission future